Dozens of former open heart surgery patients came together in Stamford Saturday to share their stories.

Dr. Michael Coady performed the surgeries on the patients who attended the third annual Open Heart Reunion.

He says he loves building relationships with his patients after surgery.

"Having them come back, and hug them and ask how they're doing and for them to bond with one another is extraordinary," said Coady. "I think it's an opportunity to just revisit what they've gone through. We have a common bond."

Tim Scaggs had open heart surgery in 2016. It was Dr. Coady who made him feel at ease before, during and after the process.

"Dr. Coady means something to myself and to my family," said Scaggs. "He's not just a guy who operated on me, he's not just a doctor who saved my life -- he's a man that supported us emotionally through the entire process. He's someone my wife and I pray for on a daily basis."